subject: Who Is A Good Candidate For Dental Implants [print this page] Many different factors will determine your eligibility for a dental implant procedure, but age isn't one of them. Some factors, like health, are inflexible. Others factors, like budget, can be worked around. Still other factors, like attitude, can only be controlled by the patient himself or herself. Read on to see if you have what it takes to be a successful dental implant candidate.
Attitude
With less invasive cosmetic dentistry procedures, all it takes to be an ideal candidate is a positive attitude and the desire for change, but since dental implants require a major time commitment, simply wanting a better smile isn't enough. The ideal dental implant candidate is not only patient and reasonable but is proactive about helping their implant to heal and about maintaining it once it's in place.
Budget
Dental implants are one of the most expensive cosmetic dentistry procedures. That said, most offices are willing to work with patients to get them the services they need at the right price or with a payment plan they can reasonably afford.
Oral Health
As with any cosmetic dentistry procedure, a large part of making your dental implant(s) successful is having otherwise good oral health. That means that the bone your implant will be rooted in must be strong, healthy and whole and that your gums must also be capable of supporting the implant. Surrounding teeth should also be healthy, as loose teeth can affect the stability and sustainability of your implant.
Health
Some seemingly unrelated conditions , like diabetes, can have side effects that could ultimately affect your suitability as a dental implant candidate.
Hygiene
Though brushing your implant isn't a necessity since it's not a real tooth and isn't subject to decay, it's still a good way to maintain the color of your implant. It's also important to maintain the overall health of your mouth as conditions like gum disease or teeth grinding could undermine the longevity of your implant.
